"I don't know, ma'am, I don't want to be a girl," Mahina replied, the frustration evident in his voice.
The principal nodded understandingly. "I see. Well, here's what we'll do then: you'll stay in the boys' dorm for one month, and after your transformation is complete, you'll be transferred to the girls' side. Is that okay with you?"
Mahina nodded without a word, knowing he didn't really have a choice in the matter.
"Very well. I know this isn't easy for you, but we'll do our best to help you through this transition," the principal assured.
Mahina stood up to leave, his heart heavy. Although he was relieved to be able to stay a little longer with his friends in the boys' dorm, the idea of eventually having to move in with the girls terrified him.
As he walked through the halls back to his class, Mahina couldn't help but dwell on the upheaval. His life had been completely turned upside down in just a matter of weeks. He felt like he was losing his identity, becoming someone else against his will.
later in the day, Mahina caught up with Leo and Alexander He had a serious expression on his face as he approached them.
"Hey, guys, can I talk to you about something?" Mahina asked, his tone a mix of anxiety and resignation.
Leo and Alexander exchanged a concerned glance, sensing the gravity of the situation.
"Of course, man," Alexander replied, gesturing for Mahina to join them at their table. "What's on your mind?"
Mahina took a deep breath before speaking. "Look, I know I've got to move to the girls' dorm in a month, and I'm not gonna lie, I'm not thrilled about it." He paused, running a hand through his hair. "But I was hoping... I mean, if it's cool with you guys, I'd like to really make the most of this last month we have left together. You know, do some of the stuff we used to do, have a bit of fun before everything changes."
Leo nodded emphatically. "Absolutely, Nath. We're with you, no matter what. This is your last hurrah as one of the guys, so let's make it count!"
Alexander chuckled and gave Mahina a playful nudge. "Yeah, dude. We'll make sure you go out with a bang. No more treating you like a girl, I promise."
Mahina felt a weight lift off his shoulders. "Thanks, you guys. I really appreciate that. I'm still scared about the whole thing, but knowing I've got you two in my corner makes it a lot easier to deal with."
"Hey, that's what friends are for," Leo said, giving Mahina's arm a reassuring squeeze. "We've got your back, Nathanael. Always."
The bell rang, signaling the end of the lunch period. As they gathered their things, Mahina couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of determination. With his friends by his side, he was going to make the most of his remaining time as a boy before the big change.
